The city lights of Las Vegas shimmered beneath the night sky as the private helicopter touched down on the rooftop of a lavish high-rise. Su Zhan stepped out first, offering a hand to Eden McCain as she emerged, her eyes wide with curiosity and a hint of excitement. The Haitian followed quietly, while Candice trailed behind, her face betraying little emotion.
"I told you, her boss is very rich," Su Zhan said with a smile, his arm comfortably around Eden's waist as they made their way inside.
The group was ushered through a series of opulent hallways, each more extravagant than the last. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, and the hush of thick carpets muffled their footsteps. Eventually, they entered a spacious lounge where a white-haired, white-bearded man in a perfectly tailored suit waited for them. His eyes were sharp, but his smile was warm, offering an air of practiced hospitality.
"Welcome to Las Vegas," he greeted, extending a hand. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. Su Zhan."
Su Zhan shook his hand with a calm confidence. "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Linderman." He gestured to Eden. "This is my secretary, Eden. As for the man behind me, I think introductions aren't necessary."
Linderman's gaze flickered briefly to the Haitian, a subtle nod of recognition passing between them. "Of course," Linderman said smoothly. "Please, come in."
They settled at a polished bar where Linderman poured drinks with the ease of a practiced host. "There's a saying in China," he began, passing a glass to Su Zhan, "that honest people don't speak in riddles. I invited you here for two reasons. First, I hope we can become better acquainted. Second, I'd like to discuss a partnership."
Su Zhan took a sip of wine, his expression unreadable. "I'm listening."
Linderman leaned forward, his voice earnest but edged with ambition. "There are many people in this world with abilities—some dangerous, some extraordinary. If left unchecked, they could cause untold harm. But someone like you, who can absorb and control these powers, could help shape a better future. With my resources and your unique talents, we could do great things. For you, for me, and for society as a whole."
Su Zhan swirled his glass, considering. "So, you want me to devour the abilities of others to keep them from causing trouble?"
Linderman smiled. "That's part of it. But I also need your strength for other matters. I believe that, given time, you'll see the value in helping me."
Eden watched the exchange, her posture relaxed but her eyes sharp. Su Zhan glanced at her, a playful smile on his lips. "What do you think, Eden?"
She returned his smile, her tone light. "You're the boss. I'm just the secretary."
Su Zhan laughed, squeezing her waist affectionately. "That's why I like you."
He turned back to Linderman. "To be honest, my main goal is to devour abilities. Anything else depends on my mood. If you're willing to provide opportunities, I'm happy to enjoy the ride—beautiful company, easy living, and new powers to collect. What more could I want?"
Linderman's smile faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered. "Of course. I won't force you to do anything. I trust that when the time comes, you'll see the benefits of working together."
Su Zhan set his glass down, stretching lazily. "Since I'm here in Las Vegas, it would be a shame not to have some fun. Mr. Linderman, I hope you don't mind arranging a little entertainment for us."
"Not at all," Linderman replied. "Enjoy yourselves. Everything is on me."
He signaled to Candice, who approached with a professional smile. "Candice will show you to your room and help you get settled."
As they followed Candice through the corridors, Su Zhan leaned close to Eden, whispering something in her ear that made her laugh quietly. The Haitian walked just behind them, silent as ever.
When they reached their suite, Eden paused at the threshold, her eyes widening. "There's only one room?" she asked, glancing at the enormous round red bed in the center.
Su Zhan shrugged, feigning innocence. "Boss and secretary, of course we share a room."
Eden rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of amusement in her smile. "Do you really trust Linderman? He doesn't seem like the type to make things simple."
Su Zhan grinned, giving her a playful swat. "You're changing the subject. But you're right—he's not simple. Still, as long as he keeps sending me people with abilities to devour, I'm happy to play along. I get what I want, you get to enjoy the ride, and Linderman gets to think he's in control. It's a win-win."
Eden frowned, a bit of worry in her eyes. "What if he finds out you're just using him?"
Su Zhan's smile softened. "Let him find out. If he tries anything, he'll regret it. For now, let's just enjoy ourselves."
Eden shook her head, half exasperated, half amused. "You're impossible, you know that?"
He laughed. "You worry too much. Sooner or later, you'll have to get used to sharing a bed with me anyway."
Eden shot him a look. "Keep dreaming. For now, I'm taking a shower. Out."
Su Zhan raised his hands in surrender, backing out of the room. "Alright, alright. I'll go check out the casino downstairs. Come find me when you're done."
He closed the door behind him, still smiling. As he turned to head down the hall, he nearly collided with a strikingly tall woman leaning against the wall. She was dressed in a daring outfit, her arms crossed, a sly smile on her lips.
"It seems your secretary doesn't always listen to you," she teased, her gaze lingering. "Maybe you'd like to try a change—just for a while?"
Su Zhan laughed, shaking his head. "You'll have to wait your turn."
He walked away, the sounds of the casino already drifting up from below, ready for whatever the night in Las Vegas would bring.